F.A.Q.
We encourage you to review the Program Guide for information about program structure.
I've been out of college for a couple years, or didn't go to college at all. Am I still eligible to apply?
Yes! Alaska Fellows Program is open to all early-career professionals who fit the other criteria of the program. We do requre that fellows be 21 years of age by the start of the program.
How long does the fellowship run?
All our programs run September - May.
Can I apply for multiple positions?
Yes! Many applicants apply for several positions, but please limit yourself to 4 or fewer. Focus on the positions you are most interested in.
What does the interview process look like?
When review begins the materials requested in the position descriptions are given to the host organizations for review. They review the materials, select applicants they would like to interview, conduct the interview, and make the final selection and send out the offer. AFP wants both the host and the fellow to have opted in to working with each other.
What does the program pay for and what do I pay for?
As a fellow your housing and utilities are paid for by the program. This works out to an approximately $1000/month value above the money paid directly as a living stipend. Additionally in Fairbanks and Anchorage shared program cars are provided by the program including insurance. AFP also pays for program related travel for program events including the convenings and site retreats.
You receive a living stipend to pay for things such as food, gas, and incidentals. AFP DOES NOT pay for health care or offer loan deferment or repayment assistance.
What does it look like come tax time?
The value of your housing is not included in your taxable income and you are not taxed on that benefit. Taxes are not removed from your living stipend and you are responsible for reporting and paying taxes on that income. Your living stipend is classified as a taxable fellowship which is treated like a scholarship payment and is taxed as part of your gross income. Fellows generally can expect to pay a few hundred dollars in taxes on their stipend payments. The exact amount varies depending on how much income you had during the period prior to beginning your fellowship.
What tips can you give me in applying?
- Read the position descriptions carefully and make sure you submit all requested materials.
- If you are interested in more than one position we recommend you submit a cover letter for each position you are interested in and tailor the cover letter to express your interest in that particular position.
- Each position description has contact information for someone at the host organization. Use the contact to ask questions if you have them.
- Look through the alumni database to see if there is an alum who has served at the host you are interested in. The alums are the best source for what it is actually like to be part of AFP.
Do you accept international applicants?
Yes, sort of. We are able to work with applicants who are in the US on student visas and are eligible for OPT extensions on their student visa. We are not able to apply for stand alone work visas for applicants at this time.